Who we are

Community Comeback is a student-led awareness project dedicated to and sharing how homelessness affects our city — especially its businesses, communities, and individuals. Through interviews, surveys, and firsthand stories, our goal is to amplify voices that are often overlooked and highlight the urgent need for change.
 
Our mission is to show that homelessness doesn’t just impact those living without shelter — it affects everyone. From struggling business owners and concerned residents to families who’ve lost their homes, the ripple effects touch the entire community.
 
That’s why Community Comeback is standing up to call for the restoration and protection of Albuquerque’s homelessness funding. When vital services lose support, more people remain on the streets without shelter, food, or medical care — and our neighborhoods suffer as a result.
 
We believe that every person deserves stability, safety, and dignity, and that our city has the power to make that happen by investing in the programs that lift people up rather than leaving them behind.

Using vacant and underutilized properties to provide housing for individuals experiencing homelessness offers a sustainable long-term solution that addresses the root causes of housing instability rather than only its visible effects. Repurposing existing structures is often more cost-effective than new construction and reduces urban blight while increasing the supply of affordable and supportive housing. Stable housing allows individuals to better access employment, healthcare, and social services, increasing the likelihood of long-term independence and community reintegration. When paired with coordinated outreach and support programs, the rehabilitation of vacant properties benefits both unhoused individuals and the broader community by promoting safety, economic stability, and efficient use of public resources.

Dive deeper into our cause

Homeless encampments have become more visible across Albuquerque in recent years, especially as the number of unhoused individuals has increased since the pandemic. The city is responsible for maintaining public health and safety, which includes cleaning up encampment areas. However, these cleanups can be complex and controversial.

Why Encampment Cleanups Matter
Encampments often lead to public health and safety concerns — such as waste buildup, fire hazards, or unsafe living conditions. Cleanups help remove debris, prevent the spread of disease, and make public areas safer for everyone. They also give outreach workers an opportunity to connect with people experiencing homelessness and direct them to services or shelter options.

Current Situation
Albuquerque conducts cleanups through the Department of Solid Waste and the Health, Housing & Homelessness Department (HHH).

Funding supports sanitation crews, outreach workers, and supplies for cleanup efforts.

When funding is limited, cleanups may be delayed or done without enough coordination, leaving both the community and the unhoused population vulnerable.

There are also ongoing discussions about ensuring cleanups are done humanely and lawfully, giving individuals time to collect belongings and receive outreach assistance before areas are cleared.

Community Perspective
Many residents and businesses want cleaner, safer public spaces, while advocacy groups emphasize the need for compassion and coordination with social services. Both sides agree that more resources and better planning are needed to ensure cleanups are effective, respectful, and part of a long-term housing solution.

Possible Ways Forward
Increase coordination between cleanup crews and outreach programs so people are offered help, not just displacement.

Ensure funding supports both sanitation and rehousing efforts, so cleanups lead to real solutions.

Promote transparency about how cleanup operations are scheduled and funded.

Support community education about homelessness and available city services.